Case Study: Guinea Pig Loses 1/3 of Her Body Weight in 1 Hour!

Ovarian cysts are very common in female guinea pigs, and we recommend spaying them around 3 months of age to prevent reproductive issues from developing. By the time she was 10 months old, this female guinea pig had already developed two extremely large ovarian cysts. She was scheduled for surgery with us and presented with a painfully distended abdomen. Ovarian cysts were confirmed by ultrasound and were found to be so big they were pushing her organs out of place. She weighed in at 1150 grams when she was being prepped for surgery.

Guinea Pig prepped for spay

Guinea pig prepped and ready for surgery.

Guinea pig's ovary, oviduct, and uterine horn being surgically removed

Guinea pig’s ovary, oviduct and uterine horn being surgically removed.

Guinea pig's ovaries and portions of both uterine horns after surgery

Guinea pig’s ovaries and portions of both uterine horns after surgery.

Barely noticeable surgical incisions after ovariectomy and partial hysterectomy.

Barely noticeable surgical incisions after ovariectomy and partial hysterectomy.

400 grams of tissue and fluid were removed from her abdomen, and after surgery she weighed a svelte 750 grams. For a 150 pound person, that equates to carrying around an extra 50 pounds of fluid and tissue! She did great in recovery and was obviously relieved to have the pressure off of her belly.

Guinea pig recovering in cozy incubator

Post-surgically, she recovered quickly and was soon ready to go home.

Exotic Vet Care Circle

About Us

Our exotic animal hospital is dedicated exclusively to the care of birds, exotic small mammals, reptiles, and even fish! We can offer everything your pet needs for a healthy and happy life, from wellness care and grooming to diagnostics and dentistry, but we can also provide emergency care during our opening hours, along with more specialized treatment for referred patients.